THE Forth Rail Bridge visitor centre would offer education and catering as well as featuring two elevators which would whisk visitors to the top of the bridge, 110m above sea level.

RAILWAY bosses have released images of proposals to open the Forth Rail Bridge to visitors and take them to the top of its 110-metre (360ft) towers.

Network Rail hopes its proposed £15 million Forth Bridge Experience would make it one of Scotland's major landmark tourist attractions.

It proposes building a visitor centre on the North Queensferry side connected by step-free ramp to two elevators which would whisk visitors to the top of the bridge, 110m above sea level.

The visitor centre would also offer education and exhibition facilities alongside catering, Forth Bridge-themed retail and a special function venue.

Plans for the South Queensferry side are a visitor reception centre which would be the starting point for guided bridge walks for groups of up to 15 people.

The walk route would pass along the south approach viaduct on a pre-existing walkway underneath the track, followed by a climb to the top of the 110m southern Queensferry Tower using a walkway in the top cantilever.

Network Rail is inviting members of the public to give their views on an artist's impressions of the proposals.

David Dickson, Network Rail acting route managing director for Scotland, said: "We're currently assessing the early feasibility study and developing a detailed business plan for delivery of these proposals.

"The market research study, launched today, will give us more detailed understanding of the potential market for these visitor plans and we're keen to hear from as many people as possible, whether you're excited about visiting the bridge or completely petrified by the prospect.

Network Rail/PA Wirex

Forth Bridge plans

"The images we've released provide a bit more of an insight into how we'd like to package visits to the bridge.

"They will be used over the coming weeks to help facilitate discussions with local communities and relevant organisations and interest groups.

"We look forward to developing these plans further in the coming months, at which point we'll have a better idea of the delivery timescales."

The reception centre on the South Queensferry side would be developed on Network Rail-owned land underneath the southern approach span, a short walk from Dalmeny station.